The dolphin watching scene in Folly Beach ranks among South Carolina’s finest coastal experiences. Two standout options make this destination special: private sunset excursions and Morris Island lighthouse tours. Both deliver reliable dolphin sightings year-round, with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins frequently swimming alongside boats.
The private sunset tours – they avoid the crowds and provide stunning photo opportunities as the sun dips behind Charleston’s harbor. The Morris Island route is another favorite, combining wildlife viewing with local history in a satisfying 2-hour journey.
Let’s explore the top dolphin watching tours available in Folly Beach.
Good To Know
- The Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour offers a private excursion to witness dolphins in their natural habitat, with a Badge of Excellence from Morris Island Charters.
- The Charleston Sunset and Dolphin Private Cruise provides the opportunity to observe Charleston’s sunset and encounter playful dolphins with included safety equipment, cooler, and bottled water.
- The Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise is a 2-hour tour that offers the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat and explore Morris Island and its historic lighthouse.
- The Folly Beach: Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise is a 2-hour guided tour that includes the opportunity to see wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and explore Morris Island for fossils, seashells, and sand dollars.
- The Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion is a 1.5-hour boat cruise that provides the chance to see resident dolphins and experience Charleston’s coastal waters aboard a 27ft. Carolina Skiff.
Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
The Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour is a private excursion that allows visitors to witness the graceful movements of dolphins in their natural habitat. Recommended by 100% of travelers and boasting a Badge of Excellence from Morris Island Charters, this tour departs from Folly Beach, South Carolina. Guests will meet the captain at the designated parking lot, where they’ll find the boat with a blue T-top and “Blue Moon” on the side.
The tour includes essential safety equipment like lifejackets, as well as a cooler filled with ice and bottled water. With a maximum of 4 passengers, this private activity ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Participants must be able to step down 24 inches to enter and exit the vessel, and infants must sit on laps. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted. Guests without any heart problems or serious medical conditions are welcome to join this 2-hour adventure, which is priced at $295 per group.
Read our full review: Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour Review
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Charleston Sunset and Dolphin Private Cruise
Embarking on the Charleston Sunset and Dolphin Private Cruise, guests are treated to an intimate and unforgettable experience on the waters near Folly Beach. This private tour provides the opportunity to witness the stunning Charleston sunset and encounter the area’s playful dolphins. The cruise includes all necessary safety equipment, as well as a cooler, ice, and bottled water for guest comfort.
Passengers meet at the designated location, a parking lot just before Hotel Folly, and board the boat with the blue T-top and “Blue Moon” markings. The private nature of the tour ensures that only the guest’s group will participate, allowing for a personalized and uninterrupted experience. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and infants are welcome to sit on laps. Alcoholic beverages are allowed for guests 21 and older. To enter and exit the vessel, passengers must be able to step down 24 inches. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.
Read our full review: Charleston Sunset and Dolphin Private Cruise Review
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Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise
Folly Beach’s Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise takes visitors on an immersive journey through the area’s stunning estuary. Priced from $49 per person, this 2-hour tour offers the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes a guided exploration of Morris Island, where visitors can dock near the historic lighthouse. Along the way, the local captain shares insights into Charleston’s rich history. The highlight, of course, is the excitement of seeing dolphins in the wild. Participants are encouraged to bring sun protection, swimwear, and light refreshments, as no glass bottles are allowed.
With flexible scheduling and a hassle-free booking process, this Folly Beach tour is an ideal way for friends, families, and nature enthusiasts to make the most of their time on the water.
Read our full review: Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise Review
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Folly Beach: Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise
An immersive 2-hour guided tour, the Folly Beach: Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise takes visitors on an unforgettable journey through the area’s stunning estuary. Hosted by an experienced captain, the tour offers the chance to see wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Participants will also explore Morris Island, home to the historic lighthouse, and search for fossils, seashells, and sand dollars.
The tour includes round-trip transportation by pontoon boat, as well as an eco-talk about the Folly River and Folly Beach. Life jackets are provided for children 13 and under. With a maximum of 18 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages, though glass bottles aren’t allowed. In case of inclement weather, the activity provider will work to reschedule or provide a refund. For the best tour time, single bookings or couples are encouraged to contact the provider directly.
Read our full review: Folly Beach: Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise Review
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Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
Along the serene shores of Folly Beach, the Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion immerses visitors in the wonders of Charleston’s coastal waters. This 1.5-hour boat cruise provides an opportunity to see resident dolphins and experience the city from a unique perspective. Aboard a 27ft. Carolina Skiff with cushioned bench seating, guests will learn about the saltwater estuary from an experienced and licensed USCG Captain/Guide.
The tour includes a cooler with ice and access to restroom facilities, ensuring a comfortable experience. Ample parking is available at the Crosbys dock, the departure point for the excursion.
Priced at $52.00 per person, the Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion offers a personalized and unique way to explore Charleston’s wildlife. Guests can reserve their spot and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for free.
Read our full review: Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion Review
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The Sum Up
Folly Beach offers several dolphin-watching tours that allow visitors to see these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you choose a private cruise or a group excursion, you’re likely to spot pods of dolphins swimming and playing in the waters around the island. With a range of options to choose from, there’s a dolphin tour to suit every preference and budget.